Right-back Steve Finnan was a model of consistency throughout his five seasons with Liverpool, which included two Champions League finals and an FA Cup triumph for the unassuming defender.

Having worked his way up the divisions and performed impressively at the 2002 World Cup with Republic of Ireland, the Limerick native signed on the dotted line at Anfield during the summer of 2003.

Finnan made his debut for the club as a substitute against Chelsea in August of that year, but injury issues across the campaign restricted his playing time to 31 appearances in all competitions in 2003-04.

Following the arrival of Rafael Benitez as boss, the full-back - appreciated by teammates and supporters for his awareness, concentration and support on the right hand side - flourished.

He clocked up 52 games during 2004-05 and notched his only Liverpool goal, past West Brom at Anfield. Most importantly, Finnan ended the season as a Champions League winner; although he was withdrawn with a knock at half-time in Istanbul.

The dependable defender featured in every round of the Reds' successful FA Cup challenge in 2006, including the incredible final victory on penalties against West Ham. Finnan was among the first names on Benitez's teamsheet.

The Spaniard commented: "Finnan is a player who will always play at a consistent level. He will be seven, eight, nine or even 10 out of 10 every week. Some players find a good level for individual games but don't do the same every week. Finnan does it for a whole season."

That tribute held true the following year as Steve was a regular in the side which reached Athens and another European final but suffered heartbreak at the hands of AC Milan.

The addition of Alvaro Arbeloa to the Liverpool squad provided a new challenge for Finnan, and one which the Spanish defender began to dominate. So with his first-team opportunities limited, the likeable Irishman departed for Espanyol in 2008.

Appearances: 217Goals: 1Honours with LFC: 1 Champions League (2004-05), 1 FA Cup (2005-06)Did you know? Finnan played at all four levels of English league football, as well as the Conference, and at the World CupWhere is he now? Retired